"Because of Winn Dixie"- Novel Study Book Club with Reading Comprehension

Have you ever loved a dog so much  that he changed your life?  If you are like me, you won't want to miss out on reading my favorite novel about dogs.  In this class, students will actively participate in a novel study by reading "Because of Winn Dixie".  Note: Students must have a copy of the book and read the assigned chapters before the next class.  The teacher and the students will discuss the assigned chapters during each session.  Discussions will include plot, story events, characters and how they develop through the novel, vocabulary,  meaningful quotes, connections to the book, and comprehension questions.   I encourage a high level of student participation and engagement while I act as the facilitator in the discussion.  Each class will include discussions and interactive activities related to the study.   Students should come ready to learn and have a fantastic time!  My teaching style includes a fun and engaging way to read and discuss one of my favorite novels of all time!  No required experience is needed.

Students are also encouraged to bring a photo of their pet to share with the class and/or their favorite stuffed animal.

After independent reading, we will discuss the chapters and complete reading activities that reinforce and teach critical reading skills such as :

Character Analysis
Identifying story elements
Problem/Solution
Point of View
Cause and Effect
Main Ideas and supporting details
Making Predictions
Summarizing
Vocabulary
Sequencing
Visualizing
Making Inferences
Making Connections 
Asking higher Level Questions
Writing Prompts

The following schedule is the timeline for each meeting. Students must read the assigned chapters before the start of the next class in order to be prepared for the discussions and activities.  Chapters will not be read in class together.  

Chapters to read before each class:
Week 1:
Class 1- Chapters 1-4
Class 2- Chapters 5-8

Week 2:
Class 3- Chapters 9-12
Class 4- Chapters 13-17

Week 3:
Class 5- Chapters 18-23
Class 6- Chapters 24-26